Devout scent aficionados have found their latest haven in the Philippines—Le Labo, the cult-favorite fragrance brand that has officially landed on this corner of the globe.
Beyond fragrances that line up department stores, niche brands have popped up in the mainstream radar for their artisan take on scents. Nothing could possibly best typify this more than the New York-based brand, whose lineup of fragrances became the poster child for slow perfumery, garnering a following from Bea Alonzo to Beyonce.
After anticipation from the store’s first signs, Le Labo has finally opened its doors in Greenbelt 5 Makati, making it the brand’s first standalone branch in the Philippines. But before heading there yourself, we’re offering a quick overview of what’s in store for fragrance fans (and the uninitiated, too!).
What Is Le Labo?
Launched in 2006, Le Labo (“The Lab” in French) found its footing in New York City, where it grew as a perfume brand that championed sensorial experiences. The creative spirit of the Big Apple runs in the very DNA of the brand with an experimental craftsmanship that prioritizes its clients—think personalized labels and hand-blended fragrances.
Outside of scents, Le Labo also prioritizes collaborations with craftspeople and small businesses, founded by ethical ideologies with packaging that strives to minimize environmental impact.
LOOK: Le Labo Opens First Philippine Store in Greenbelt 5 Makati
Located on the first floor of Greenbelt 5 Makati, Le Labo’s first physical store in the Philippines breathes much of its New York City origins. The branch’s interiors are laden with industrial and rustic charm, which is now synonymous with the Le Labo name.
Visitors will be greeted by a testing table at the center of the store, where they can take the label’s signature fragrances for a spin. Each fragrance is followed by a numerical value, which denotes the number of ingredients used in the scent.
Try out bestsellers such as the Santal 33, which is a blend of cardamom, iris, and violet notes, similar to the warmth of a crackling fire. Another 13 is reminiscent of a luxurious scent with pear and musk notes, while Rose 31 is for those who opt for a floral sweetness. Prices of the Classic Collection start at P19,000 for 100ml.
Other than its signature perfumes, Le Labo also has a line of grooming collections for hair, body, and skincare, which can be tested on the store’s sink.
Le Labo is slated to open its second branch in SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. But for the initial peek at the revered label, make your way to its first branch, now open at G/F Greenbelt 5 Ayala Center, Makati, 1228 Metro Manila, Philippines.
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